Selecting a SharePoint Development Service: Key Considerations
Introduction
SharePoint is a powerful platform that allows organizations to create and manage websites, intranets, and collaboration tools. Whether you are looking to build a new SharePoint website or enhance your existing intranet, selecting the right SharePoint development service is crucial for the success of your project. In this article, we will discuss the key considerations you should keep in mind when choosing a SharePoint development service.
1. Expertise and Experience
When selecting a SharePoint development agency, it is important to consider their expertise and experience in SharePoint development. Look for agencies that have a proven track record of successfully delivering SharePoint projects. Check their portfolio to see if they have worked on similar projects in the past. A SharePoint development agency with extensive experience will be able to provide valuable insights and recommendations to ensure the success of your project.
2. SharePoint On-Premise vs SharePoint Online
Another important consideration is whether you want to develop your SharePoint website or intranet on-premise or on SharePoint Online. SharePoint on-premise is installed and hosted on your own servers, while SharePoint Online is a cloud-based solution provided by Microsoft. Consider your organization’s specific requirements and budget when making this decision. If you prefer the flexibility and scalability of a cloud-based solution, SharePoint Online may be the better choice. However, if you require more control over your data and infrastructure, SharePoint on-premise may be the preferred option.
3. Customization and Integration
Customization and integration capabilities are crucial when selecting a SharePoint development service. SharePoint offers a wide range of customization options, allowing you to tailor your website or intranet to meet your specific needs. Look for a development agency that has experience in custom SharePoint development and can provide examples of their previous customizations. Additionally, consider the integration capabilities of the agency. If you have existing systems or tools that need to be integrated with SharePoint, ensure that the agency has the expertise to handle these integrations.
4. Managed SharePoint Services
Managed SharePoint services can be a valuable addition to your SharePoint development project. These services provide ongoing support and maintenance for your SharePoint website or intranet, ensuring that it remains secure, up-to-date, and optimized for performance. When selecting a SharePoint development service, inquire about their managed SharePoint services offerings. Having a dedicated team to handle the ongoing management of your SharePoint environment can save you time and resources in the long run.
5. Outsourcing vs In-House Development
One of the key decisions you will need to make is whether to outsource your SharePoint development or handle it in-house. Outsourcing SharePoint development can be a cost-effective option, especially if you do not have the expertise or resources in-house. It allows you to leverage the skills and experience of a specialized SharePoint development agency. However, if you have a dedicated IT team with SharePoint expertise, in-house development may be a viable option. Consider your organization’s specific needs, budget, and resources when making this decision.
Conclusion
Selecting the right SharePoint development service is crucial for the success of your SharePoint project. Consider the expertise and experience of the agency, the choice between SharePoint on-premise and SharePoint Online, customization and integration capabilities, managed SharePoint services offerings, and the decision between outsourcing and in-house development. By carefully evaluating these key considerations, you can ensure that you choose a SharePoint development service that meets your organization’s specific needs and delivers a successful SharePoint website or intranet.